More news on the Sky service to rival Freeview

["Stephen Jones" <ukha@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

"
Sky to launch new Freeview-style service

Sky has confirmed that it is to launch a free-to-air satellite TV package
t=
o
take on its main rival, Freeview, later this year.=20

The line-up will include 200 TV and radio channels plus interactive
service=
s
for a one-off =A3150 charge. It comes in response to the twin threats of
th=
e
slowing of premium subscriber acquisition and the success of Freeview,
whic=
h
is now in 3.5m UK homes.=20

Chief executive James Murdoch said: "These initiatives are another
step in
giving consumers a choice from Sky that suits their needs at the top and
lower ends of the scale. They will help drive even greater take-up of
digital TV services and enable Sky to enjoy a close relationship with even
more customers."=20

It has been reported that chief executive James Murdoch has told the City
that charges could be introduced later; a decryption card will be required
to view the free channels, which will reportedly expire after two years.
Once the card runs out, customers may have to pay for a replacement.
"

Not quite the same as Freeview if you need a card which may expire and cost
to replace!

SJ